Also there are external workbenches, such as BIM workbench, that can be installed from the Addon Manager. For example, built-in workbenches include Arch, Draft, FEM, Spreadsheets, etc.

Workbenches are collections of tools with specific purpose and workflows. Similarly to CATIA, tools are grouped into workbenches. FreeCAD is not targeted at a specific profession – it can be used by mechanical engineers, civil engineers, structural engineers and architects. You can generate 2D drawings (plans and sections) in DWG or DXF file formats and export them as PDF from your 3D model. You can export them to a wide range of file formats, or 3D-print them. You can create a 3D object from a 2D sketch.

There is no limitation in model size – you can model engineering parts or buildings. It is primarily made for mechanical design, but it can also be used for product design, architecture and interior design. For a full list of supported file formats please visit. It supports the following file formats: DWG, DXF, SVG, STL, OBJ, DAE, DAT, CSV, 3DS, IV and IFC (among others). However, the true power of FreeCAD are parametric relationships and modular nature that allows you to adapt workflow for different environments: 2D drawing, 3D modeling, animation and Building Information Modeling (BIM).įreeCAD’s native file format is FreeCAD Standard file format (.FCStd). Compared to these commercial solutions, many capabilities are missing. You can easily modify your design by going back into your model history and changing its parameters.įreeCAD is a free alternative to AutoCAD, CATIA, SolidWorks, Inventor and Revit. Almost any property of any object can be plugged into another property. Parametric modeling software means your 3D and 2D objects are driven by parameters, or properties. It provides both CAD and BIM functionalities. FreeCAD is a parametric 3D modeling software that is open-source and can be used for commercial use.

2d drawing freecad